Christopher M. Clarke
Kimura: The Triumphs and Tragedy of One of Judo's Greatest and Most Controversial Judo Champions
- ISBN 13:
- 9781506196213
- author:
- Christopher M. Clarke
- format:
- Paperback
- publisher:
- CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (27 Jan. 2015)
- language:
- English
- Publication Year:
- 2015
- Pages:
- 100
- Dimensions:
- 15.2 x 0.6 x 22.9 cm
- Genre:
- Martial Arts & Self-Defense Sports & Recreation
- Condition:
- New
- Availability:
- Item usually sent within 7 working days
Description
Kimura: The Triumphs and Tragedy of One of Judo's Greatest and Most Controversial Judo Champions The kimura, a specialized arm lock, is a term that has become synonymous with judo and Mixed Martial Arts. However, few people know the story behind its origins and the judo competitor who gave it its name. This book tells the fascinating and inspiring story of Kimura Masahiko, a judo prodigy who dominated the sport in the 1930s and 1940s. Kimura's achievements on the judo mat are remarkable. He was a judo prodigy in high school, losing only four formal judo matches in his entire career, and became the youngest fifth dan in Japan. He dominated the judo competition circuit, repeatedly winning the All-Japan championship, and even resumed his winning ways after judo was reinstated in 1947. However, Kimura's life was not without its challenges. He faced financial struggles, including having to pay for his wife's medical care on a teacher's salary, and was forced to travel to Brazil to teach and compete with Helio Gracie. Despite the challenges he faced, Kimura remained a force to be reckoned with in the judo world. His legendary bout with Gracie is still talked about today, and his application of the ude-garami ("kimura") lock is a testament to his skill and determination. This book provides a detailed and insightful look